Field Ornithology

Immerse yourself in a week of all things avian.

All participants must agree to the COVID-19 Camp Guidelines - please read before registering.

June 18–23, 2023

Registration opens October 25, 2022!

Immerse yourself in a week of all things avian, learning in small-group, primarily field settings about bird biology and evolution, nesting behavior, songs, migration and conservation (along with plenty of ID tips to improve your birding).

Field Ornithology includes excursions to both mainland and coastal habitats, including offshore islands, lush grasslands, marshes and sphagnum bog forests (sensitive puffin-nesting islands will be observed by boat). Add some of the most respected bird experts in the country, and you have Field Ornithology on Hog Island. You'll learn in the woods and on the water -- experiencing the dawn chorus with experts in bird song recording at your side; getting a chance to help a bird bander ring colorful warblers; discussing avian coloniality in the midst of thousands of raucous terns. Workshops and evening sessions will provide a solid foundation on the principles of ornithological science. You'll come home with amazing memories - and a much greater understanding of bird biology and ecology.

"It was one of the best weeks of my life. I really enjoyed the program, the staff and instructors, my new "birding buddies" and of course the food." - Sujan, graduate student, Minnesota Click here to view the photo gallery

Prices: Below are listed per person prices that include meals, housing, instruction, and all boat trips. Participants must arrange transportation to and from the Audubon dock in Bremen at the start and end of the session (see directions page). Check with your local Audubon chapter or bird club to see if scholarships are available.

$1690 Standard Room: shared room (2 twin beds), shared bathroom
$1840 Puffin Room in the Crow's Nest, 2 twin beds, private 1/2 bath (dbl occupancy)
$1940 Single room, shared bathroom
$1940 Osprey Room, Eider room, or Guillemot room, 2 twin beds, private bathroom (dbl occupancy)
$2190 Helm Cabin, 1 queen bed, 1 twin bed, private bathrooms (dbl occupancy)

"The whole atmosphere of the camp was perfect. Serious about learning more about birding and birds, but fun and informative. I'd do it again in a heartbeat." - Lottie, kindergarten teacher, Missouri

Questions: For questions regarding the program, registration, lodging or meals, contact the Audubon Camp program manager at hogisland@audubon.org or (207) 360-7733. Additional information can be found on the lodging and frequently asked questions page.

Please note that there are NO prerequisites for these programs and less experienced/enthusiastic spouses/friends are more than welcome to enroll in all sessions!

Director
Scott Weidensaul, Author and ornithologist

Instructors
Anthony Hill, Bird Bander
Sara Morris, Professor of Biology and Environmental Science, Canisius College
Angelika Nelson, former curator, Borror Laboratory of Bioacoustics, Ohio State University
Tykee James, Governmental Affairs Coordinator and Birder, National Audubon Society
Katelyn Shelton, Junior Instructor

Guest Speaker
Eva Matthews Lark, Senior Manager of Public Programs, Seabird Institute and Hog Island
Eric Snyder, Todd Wildlife Santuary Facilities Manager, Seabird Institute

Read the Jan/Feb 2016 Bird Watcher's Digest article to learn more about Field Ornithology

NOTE: Audubon reserves the right to alter itineraries, instructors and particular arrangements, or to substitute similar itineraries or arrangements, at no penalty. If Audubon cancels a session, it will issue full refunds of all deposits or payments to the paid participants.